Plan Your Winter Escape to Backcountry Ski, Snowshoe, Cross-Country Ski, or Fat Bike on the Trails around Republic, Wa.

The small northeast Washington town of Republic, surrounded by mountains, trails and several Sno-Parks, is the kind of place where close-to-town winter adventures come steeped in solitude that may feel like you’re 1,000 miles from nowhere. A cross-country ski outing on the Ferry County Rail Trail or up at the Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park at the top of Boulder Pass will greet you with such a still, snowy quiet that you may swear you can hear snowflakes falling. And you’re bound to see more snowshoe hare tracks than other humans on a backcountry ski tour in the Kettle Range up at Sherman Pass (the highest all-season pass in Washington).

Even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive north from Spokane, Republic, the county seat of sparsely populated Ferry County, has held onto its western mountain-town roots as a mining and logging hub. Historic buildings line the stoplight- and chain store-free main drag, housing small businesses that serve the local community and visitors alike. With a couple of hotels, local restaurants, coffee shops, a bakery and even a local craft brewery, it’s a welcome alternative to crowded resort towns and an easy place to settle into as a base camp for winter adventures.

Some of the Best Winter Adventures Around Republic

The Republic area has the winter adventure bases covered, whether you’re into snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, snowmobiling or fat biking. For human-powered winter sports, there are several options.

The Ferry County Rail Trail offers a flat, non-motorized pathway for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or fat biking, depending on the snow conditions. Portions of the trail are groomed throughout the winter for cross-country skiing.

Up in the nearby Kettle Range Mountains, two mountain passes, Boulder and Sherman, offer backcountry and cross-country skiers and snowshoers easy access to a winter wonderland. The Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park at Boulder Pass features six miles of groomed Nordic-ski trails. Skiers with backcountry-touring gear and snowshoers have endless possibilities for exploring the open forests of the recently burned mountain slopes on both sides of the pass.

At the Sherman Pass Sno-Park, there are options for mellow snowshoe hikes and challenging peak ascents. Backcountry skiers willing to earn their turns have access to some of the best backcountry slopes in the Inland Northwest. Avalanches are possible in the mountains around Sherman Pass, and all skiers and snowshoers should come prepared with appropriate avalanche training and safety gear. A Washington Sno-Park permit is required at both trailheads.

2026 Winter Events in Republic and Ferry County

Republic and Ferry County also host several unique winter events that are worth planning a trip around.

Republic’s Winterfest celebration for 2026 is set for Friday evening and all day Saturday, Jan. 9-10. The event features a Friday evening light parade and multiple creative events and contests on Saturday, including outhouse races, a K-9 keg pull, tug-of-war and other family-friendly activities.

Nordic and backcountry skiers should have the Altai Skis Backcountry Ski & Hok Festival on their radar. Happening Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8, 2026 (pending Forest Service approval as of December 2025), the event offers a chance to demo backcountry ski-touring gear from Ferry County-based Altai Skis and explore the local backcountry terrain with others. The weekend-long event takes place up at the Deer Creek Nordic Sno-Park near Curlew in the Kettle Range.

Another Nordic ski event popular with both locals and skiers from around the region is the annual Ferry County Rail Trail Ski Day, which takes place on a weekend in January or February, depending on snow conditions. Participants can try out cross-country ski gear and take free ski lessons. Follow the Ferry County Rail Trail Partners on Facebook for this year’s ski day details.

Winter Road and Snow Safety

 Mountain passes around Republic including Boulder and Sherman passes may experience winter storm conditions, and visitors need to come prepared for varying road and trailhead conditions. Check out our backcountry winter guide to the Republic area for more trail and terrain suggestions for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Because the high peaks of the Kettle Crest include some avalanche terrain, be aware of avalanche risks in the area and go prepared when exploring backcountry terrain on skis, splitboard, snowshoes, or snowmobile.

Where to Stay in Republic in the winter

Republic has several lodging options for winter visitors looking to set up basecamp for a night or more in the winter wonderland of this historic mountain town. Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored by the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau)

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Photo courtesy of Lara Gricar

Mount Spokane Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing: Groomed Trails and Winter Routes

Mount Spokane remains the heavyweight of winter trail systems in the Inland Northwest. With 37 miles of groomed Nordic skiing, dedicated snowshoe routes, warming huts, and dependable early-season snow, it’s the closest thing we have to a full-service Nordic and snowshoe winter recreation area. Skate skiers, classic skiers, and snowshoers each get their own space, and grooming is typically excellent thanks to the park’s volunteer-supported program. Please note that snowshoeing and fat biking are not allowed on Nordic trails. You can check the Nordic trails grooming report here.

Location: 45 minutes northeast of Spokane
Passes: For Nordic skiing on the groomed trails you’ll need a Washington Sno-Park Pass plus Special Groomed Trails sticker. For snowshoeing when parking in the snowmobile/snowshoeing/backcountry touring lot before heading up to the Nordic area parking lot at Selkirk Lodge warming hut, only a standard Sno-Park Pass is required.

49° North Nordic Trails: Groomed Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoe Routes

Tucked into a quiet corner of the Colville National Forest, the 49° North Nordic Center is smaller than Mt. Spokane but offers scenic forest trails. The trail system includes roughly 13 kilometers of groomed skate and classic routes that are also open to fat biking, plus a couple marked snowshoe trails that wind through the woods. With rolling terrain and a laid-back vibe, it’s often less crowded than Mount Spokane and great for intermediate skiers.

Location: A little over an hour north of Spokane near Chewelah
Passes: Washington Sno-Park Pass plus the Special Groomed Trail sticker

Riverside State Park Snowshoeing & Nordic Options Close to Spokane

When you only have a short window to get outside and there’s snow on the ground, Riverside is tough to beat. Snowshoers can explore existing paths that are often groomed for fat biking near Seven Mile or connect with the Centennial Trail after storms. In some past winters, the park has groomed a small Nordic loop usually in the Equestrian Area—when snow depth allows. Grooming isn’t guaranteed, but when the coverage is good, it’s one of the easiest ways to fit skiing into a busy week if you live in the Spokane area.

Location: Within Spokane city limits
Passes: Washington Discover Pass

Fourth of July Pass Nordic Ski Trails: Groomed Classic Loops in North Idaho

Fourth of July Pass is one of the most approachable winter trail systems for beginners. Managed by the Panhandle Nordic Club and the Forest Service, the area offers 12–15 miles of groomed classic Nordic trails, along with open snowshoe access on most of the forest roads and surrounding terrain. Routes like the Lodgepole Loop provide mellow grades and plenty of space to cruise in the trees.

Location: 20 minutes east of Coeur d’Alene along I-90
Passes: Idaho Park N’ Ski pass required; voluntary donations support grooming

Lookout Pass Cross-Country & Backcountry Ski Touring Routes

Lookout Pass is one of the most reliable places in the region to find deep winter snow, and while the ski area is known for its chairlifts, the surrounding terrain offers several quiet Nordic and touring options. Trails follow old railroad grades, snowmobile trails and Forest Service roads, creating long, gentle routes ideal for classic skiing, skate skiing on firm days, or easygoing tours. (Note: The Route of the Hiawatha is not open to Nordic skiing.)

A favorite outing is along the old Northern Pacific rail grade in either direction from the Lookout Pass ski area parking lot. It’s a wide, groomed snowmobile corridor with big views and mellow terrain. From Lookout Pass, skiers looking for more mileage can head east toward Taft or west toward the Hale Hatchery on the same rail bed—both long, scenic glides with shuttle or out-and-back options. Snowmobile grooming provides a consistently packed surface on these shared-use routes.

Location: Right off I-90 at the Idaho–Montana border
Passes: No Park N’ Ski pass required at the Lookout Pass ski area base parking lot but parking may be limited on weekends.
Notes: Expect mixed-use traffic; some short walk-through sections at tunnels or underpasses

Palouse Divide Nordic Area: Quiet Idaho Backcountry Skiing & Snowshoeing

For skiers looking for a more remote classic, skate and backcountry trails and routes, the Palouse Divide north of Potlatch offers wide, rolling ski routes on old forest roads. The area typically has groomed classic tracks and plenty of room for snowshoers to wander. It’s quiet, uncrowded and surrounded by deep forest—perfect for skiers who prefer solitude.

Location: 1 hr. 20 min. south of Coeur d’Alene or east of Moscow
Passes: Idaho Park N’ Ski Pass required for winter parking

Whether you’re gliding across fresh corduroy or tromping through untouched powder, the Inland Northwest delivers some of the best winter Nordic ski and snowshoe days in the Northwest, and the season always rewards the ones who show up. For more cross-country ski and snowshoe trail recommendations, check out our 2014 guide to North Idaho’s winter trails here.

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One of the most serene and satisfying late winter or early spring exploits is a soothing soak in one of the dozens of hike-in hot springs dotting our region within a few hours’ drive. One of the most delightful ways to reach them, and at times the only way come early spring, is on snowshoes. 

Natural hot springs, in addition to being hot, which can itself be soothing since warm water immersion induces endorphin production, can also contain chemicals known to promote feelings of serenity and contentment, like lithium, magnesium, and sulfur. A hot soak paired with some moderate exertion required to access it, may elicit a dopamine response equivalent to hang gliding in the Alps. I can’t say personally, but it may. I can say that it will require a tiny fraction of the gear and training. 

Once prepared, where can you find these geothermal gems, and what kind of hiking or snowshoeing adventures may await you en route? Below are a few hikes to get you started. The Pacific Northwest is replete with soaking options, each offering a unique and wondrously relaxing experience. Remember, conditions change rapidly, so always consult recent trail reports and check the weather before heading out. 

Gearing Up  

Depending on the snow conditions and rules at the hot spring, you may need little more (or a little less) than a bathing suit to soak and some snowshoes, hiking boots (with or without the addition of traction devices like Yaktrax), and possibly some trekking poles to get you there. Snowshoes are the footwear of choice in fresh powder and soft or unconsolidated snow, and are the savior of trips when post-holing for miles might prevent you from reaching your destination comfortably, or at all, in limited spring-month light.  

Snowshoes are relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to master, the primary concern being maintaining a wide stepping stance so you don’t trip on your own feet. This feels unnatural at first, but after a few falls you’ll channel your inner zombie and widen your base to achieve a kind of rigid, awkward, lilting stability. To maximize enjoyment, select the correct size snowshoe for your weight. If you’re sure no snow awaits you on your path, boots shold suffice. Other recommended gear include a backpack with a towel, dry clothing, plenty of water (soaking, though the opposite of physical exertion, can dehydrate you through imperceptible heavy sweating), snacks, first aid kit, trekking poles for balance, and a headlamp in case you end up racing sundown. It’s easy to lose track of time during a meditative soak, so make sure you leave enough daylight to return to your car or campsite safely. 

Choosing a Route 

It’s important to pay close attention to the route you plan to take, and understand some of the important factors you should consider in choosing a hot spring suitable for late winter or early spring adventure. Obtain a guidebook, like Falcon Guide’s “Hiking Hot Springs in the Pacific Northwest” by Evie Litton and Sally Jackson, and peruse recent trail reports online before attempting any hike.  

While considering any of the routes to a hot spring, especially if you plan to be on snowshoes, you may want to avoid river crossings, which could make the remaining miles to the hot spring or your return trip more uncomfortable. Frostbite is much more likely when your extremities are wet. Also generally avoid routes with ropes, ladders or steep rock descents, as the plentiful water vapor surrounding springs can condense and ice build up on them, making these features unduly treacherous. Nothing wrecks a peaceful soak quite like a fall on the way to it, and your fellow soakers don’t want blood in the water.  

Routes to many of the popular hot springs, like those off Highway 12 near Missoula, Jerry Johnson, Weir, and Stanley, may be heavily trodden and icy, so bring traction cleats and watch for off-camber turns. Certain routes may have very steep pitches or drop-offs that may be hidden under fresh snow. The best routes may be those with which you have familiarized yourself in the less formidable seasons. As with any shoulder season outdoor endeavor, be aware of the weather forecast, especially regarding snowfall, temperature, approaching storms, and wind chill, all of which may be indicators of enjoyability and risk.  

Respecting Early Spring Weather 

Bluebird days can be deceptive. Crisp air and brilliant sunshine may lull you into a false sense of security, but remember, late winter and spring weather in the mountains can shift swiftly and prove unforgiving. Always pack extra layers and dry clothing, even if the forecast looks promising. A sudden change in wind or temperature can turn a pleasant outing into a survival situation. Hypothermia is a real threat, especially when combined with the dehydrating effects of a hot spring soak. 

While hot springs offer relaxation and rejuvenation, they are also natural environments with inherent risks. Always be aware of your surroundings, and respect the power and preeminence of nature. Carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it. Let someone know your plans and expected return time. Most importantly, use common sense. If a situation feels unsafe, don’t hesitate to turn back. Mountains and their medicinal hot water will be there another day. 

Take the time to appreciate the beauty of the serene landscape. The quiet solitude of the forest, accented only by the crunch of snow or grind of trail beneath your feet, the crisp, clean air—these are all part of the magic of a shoulder season hot spring adventure. Keep an eye out for wildlife. You are likely to be serenaded by songbirds, and you might spot deer, elk, coyotes, or even a snowshoe hare. 

Classic NW Soaks 

Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon: Nestled in the Umpqua National Forest, these springs offer a classic hot spring experience. The moderate 4-mile roundtrip hike is generally manageable for snowshoers with some experience. The trail winds through a beautiful forest, and the reward is a series of cascading pools of varying temperatures. Be aware that Umpqua can get crowded, especially on weekends, so arrive early to secure a spot. The Forest Service maintains the trail, but it’s always wise to check the website for current conditions and any closures. 

Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon: This clothing-optional retreat requires reservations and offers a rustic, communal experience. Access in winter or early spring typically involves a snowshoe hike of varying length depending on the snowpack and chosen route. The soaking pools are nestled in a beautiful forest setting, and the lack of clothing (if you choose) adds a certain liberating element to the experience. Be sure to check their website for reservation availability and access information. 

Goldbug Hot Springs, Idaho: This one is for the more audacious snowshoer or hiker. The trek to Goldbug is longer than some and can be more challenging, especially in deep snow. To those willing to put in extra effort, the reward is commensurate. These natural hot springs are perched on a hillside overlooking the Salmon River, offering breathtaking views. Multiple pools are tiered down the hillside, each with its own unique temperature and character, affording unusual privacy in this popular soaking spot. Be prepared for a strenuous hike and potentially icy conditions, so traction cleats should be packed with or without snowshoes. 

Scenic Hot Springs, Washington: As the name suggests, this soak offers stunning views and a truly tranquil experience. Access is via a private trail, and reservations are absolutely essential. The hike is relatively short, but can be steep in places. The hot springs themselves are nestled in a secluded grotto, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere. Because of the limited reservation-only access, Scenic Hot Springs offers a less crowded experience than some of the more popular options. Space is limited to 12 soakers and can be booked months in advance. It’s well worth any wait! 

Baker Hot Springs, Washington: For those seeking a shorter and less strenuous adventure, Baker Hot Springs is a great option. The hike to the springs is relatively short and easy, making it suitable for families and those new to snowshoeing. The springs themselves are rustic and undeveloped, offering a more natural and primitive experience. Be aware that this area can be popular with backcountry skiers, so be mindful of their presence and yield accordingly. 

Clear Creek Hot Springs, Oregon: Located near the town of Estacada, Clear Creek Hot Springs is another relatively easy-to-access option. The hike is short and the terrain is gentle, making it a good choice for beginners. The springs are located along the Clackamas River, offering a picturesque setting. Be sure to check with the Forest Service regarding access and any potential closures. 

Embrace winter, strap on your boots or snowshoes, and embark on a steamy journey to one of the Pacific Northwest’s amazing natural hot springs. There is no more perfect time than the often-inclement spring months to experience the soothing warmth of a natural hot spring with a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Your body will thank you for getting off the couch, no matter how good the book.  

Justin Skay tends toward mild reclusiveness and hot beverages in the snowy months, but can be found atop two wheels on his beloved fatbike Deebo when the snow is just right. 

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A great plan for a winter Republic trip is to schedule it around one of the community’s unique events, including the town’s Winterfest celebration with multiple creative events and contests on Saturday, January 11 or the Altai Skis Backcountry Ski and Hok Festival. Happening February 8 up at Boulder Pass in the Kettle Range, the Altai Skis event offers a chance to demo backcountry ski touring gear from Altai Skis and explore the local backcountry terrain with others. Planning your visit around one of these events lets you maximize engagement with like-minded out-of-towners and locals alike and adds so much to any adventure getaway.

2025 Republic Washington Winterfest

This year’s Republic Winterfest events happen on Saturday, January 11, 2025. Don’t miss this family- and leashed-dog-friendly community celebration with winter-themed events and competitions planned all in one of the Northwest’s coolest mountain towns. Spend the weekend exploring downtown Republic and enjoying indoor and outdoor Winterfest activities.

Grab a hot beverage from one of the local coffee shops or craft beer at the brewery or a bite to eat and stick around for these Winterfest activities and spectacles, including outhouse races, an epic tug of war in the streets, a parade through town, snow sculpturing, sasquatch calling, and plenty of kids’ activities and other festival fun. Find all of the event details for spectators and participants here.

Altai Skis Backcountry Ski and Hok Festival February 8

Based in the tiny nearby town of Curlew, Wash., situated at the foot of the Kettle Range mountains near the Canadian border 30 minutes northeast from Republic, local Altai Skis sponsors this annual gathering of ski touring enthusiasts in Ferry County that’s planned in 2025 for Saturday, Feb 8. Altai Skis sells backcountry skis that are inspired by the origins of skiing in the Altai Mountains of China, where they’ve been used as a tool for backcountry travel and hunting for millennia. And this festival that takes place at Boulder Pass in the Kettle Range mountains is a chance to try some of Altai’s gear on some relatively mellow backcountry slopes. Festival demos will include a chance to try the Hok from Altai Skis that’s popular with snowshoers and skiers looking to tour around any size hills or mountains. The event also typically includes group ski tours with others where you get the chance to explore the ski terrain and meet other backcountry skiers.

Winter Adventures Around Republic

Whatever your winter outdoor recreation passion is, the Republic area has you covered from snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, fat biking, or even hitting the slopes at one of two nearby community ski hills. Trails are a short drive from town, and the nearby Ferry County Rail Trail offers a flat, non-motorized pathway for everything from hiking or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to fat biking depending on the snow conditions.

Backcountry or XC Ski, Snowshoe, Fat Bike or Ride the Lifts

There is an abundance of options to get out and explore the trails around the Republic area on skis, bikes, or snowshoes. The Ferry County Rail Trail is the close-to-town recreational crown jewel of the area. This 25-mile-long rail trail offers Nordic skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing when there’s enough snow on the ground or hiking and biking in low-snow periods. Up in the nearby Kettle Range mountains, two passes offer backcountry skiers and snowshoers with avalanche and backcountry awareness excellent options for exploring the forests and peaks of the Kettles. Another great option for skiers and snowboarders who like the small local ski hill experience is to spend a day at one of the two ski areas about an hour’s drive from Republic, the Sitzmark Ski Area northwest of town or Phoenix Mountain Ski Area just north of the border in BC.

Snowmobiling Near Republic

There are over 100 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in Ferry County that are a short drive from Republic. When the area gets a foot or more of snow, Washington State Parks typically grooms the trails. The Sno-Parks are great for family outings, and usually have ample parking lots with restrooms. Washington State Sno-Park Permits are required for parking and playing December 1st through March 31st. You can find maps and more information at the Washington Sno-Park site or at Newashingtontrails.com’s snowmobile trail page.

Planning Your Trip to Republic WA

 Check out our backcountry winter guide to the Republic area for specific trail and terrain suggestions. Because the high peaks of the Kettle Crest include some avalanche terrain, be aware of avalanche risks in the area and go prepared when exploring backcountry terrain on skis, splitboard, snowshoes, or snowmobile. Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored)

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With Schweitzer Mountain Resort scheduled to open in November for the 2024/2025 season and La Nina already delivering plenty of snow, now’s the time to plan your Sandpoint escape. Out There partner and advertiser Hotel Ruby Sandpoint offers a ton of amenities and easy access to Schweitzer for downhill skiing and snowboarding and Nordic skiing, as well as local snowshoe and fat bike trails, making it the best choice for where to stay. Your room comes with a free continental breakfast and access to a heated indoor pool and hot tubs, plus a ski locker room and waxing area and sleds you can use to hit the local sledding hills with the kids.

Plan Now for Your Sandpoint Winter Trip

Fall is the time to begin planning and booking your winter adventures out of Sandpoint and Schweitzer. From your base at Hotel Ruby Sandpoint, spend your days skiing or snowboarding up at Schweitzer, cruising the Schweitzer Nordic trail system, or hiking, fat biking or snowshoeing closer to town in the Pine Street Woods. The Pine Street Woods hill is a popular sledding spot and Schweitzer has a great tubing hill and snowshoeing trails. If wandering the snowy woods on snowshoes is your winter activity of choice, find the right snowshoe trail in the area in our guide to snowshoeing in North Idaho.

After having all that fun out in the snow, head back to Hotel Ruby Sandpoint and take advantage of the pool and hot tubs, on-site restaurant and bar, and comfortable dog-friendly rooms, all just a few minutes drive from Schweitzer and downtown Sandpoint. Book your trip before dates start filling up!

(Sponsored)

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By Jean Arthur

By the time my family and I finished snowshoeing around Mammoth Terraces in Yellowstone National Park, we’d tromped 1.5 miles, observed colorful formations like Orange Spring Mound and Angel Terrace, and laughed at our kids’ descriptions of the park’s famous thermal features exuding sulphureous belches.

“Eww. Dad. Do you have to do that here,” jokes my son, who’s well-versed in Yellowstone’s thermal world. The rotten-egg malodor derives from solfataras, hydrogen sulfide gas, chemical reactions where the pH below “1” can dissolve the soles of snowshoes, so acidic it is. Add heat, and Yellowstone provides habitat for thermoacidophiles—acid- and heat-loving microbes.

At Mammoth Terraces, the 200+ degree water dissolves limestone and forms glistening white calcium carbonate, travertine. Here, buffalo roam. Elk bugle. Bears sleep. Wolves howl. We adventure.

Back in the truck, parked along the Mammoth-to-Norris Road, the heater blasts, and our toes and noses defrost. The frigid mist from the evaporating thermal springs flock our mittens and hats with lovely crystals. Here at the Upper Terrace area, the road closes to automobiles for winter and opens to snowcoaches, over-the-snow tracked vehicles that shuttle visitors to backcountry trailheads and on to Old Faithful, our next trip.

Through the steam, we see a bull bison using his massive head to shovel snow aside as he searches for grasses in subnivean hibernation. While we worry that the 2,000-pound vegetarian might starve, we learn from the Visitor Center’s rangers that the ungulates, bison, elk, deer and pronghorn, evolved to survive on few calories in winter despite minus-20-degree days and even colder nights.

Elk wander the Lower Terrace area between the 37-foot-tall Liberty Cap formation, which resembles a torpedo—the kids add less savory descriptions—and the Mammoth Hot Spring Historic District. We tumble into the elegant Mammoth Hotel lobby where a roaring fire, pianist on the baby grand, and coffee shop warm hands and hearts. The hearty hot chocolate helps. Winter is a magical place for Yellowstone visitors.

Trail Etiquette and How to Explore the Park

Access to America’s first national park, established in 1872, includes a handful of snowshoe trailheads, one interior open road, and snowcoach routes, which are excellent options. Day excursions lead from cozy and elegant lodgings where après treks include crackling fires, hot or cold refreshments, and local lore.

The Gardiner and Mammoth area’s lodgings and libations offer an excellent launch for winter trips because the road from Gardiner, Mont., to Mammoth and on to Cooke City, Mont., is plowed. On other visits, we’ve skied and snowshoed the challenging 8-mile Blacktail Plateau Trail, the 2.5-mile easy Tower Falls out-and-back route, and the easy 3.5-mile Barronette Trail near Cooke City. Blacktail Plateau and Barronette trails have two trailheads and can be snowshoed one way if a group has a two-vehicle shuttle.

Trail etiquette includes giving right of way to the uphill traveler when encountering oncoming snowshoers, allowing speedier travelers to pass by stepping to trail’s side, and never snowshoeing on the skier track, which damages the trail for skiers. And, of course: leave no trace, only tracks.

Trails vary with challenges, from elevation (above 7,000 feet) to skill, wildlife hazards and limited daylight. (At winter solstice, sun sets just after 4 p.m.) Other than Gardiner lodgings, restaurants and outfitters; the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel; and Mammoth General Store and Bear Den Ski Shop where we rented snowshoes, no services exist in winter for 50 miles. Eastward on the Grand Loop Road to the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City, lodgings, eateries and gift shops cater to winter visitors—mainly snowmobilers.

Visiting Old Faithful in Winter

Yellowstone is a curious place.

“Dad! I’ll race you to Old Faithful! Ready, set,” the kids dash ahead before my husband and I even think about trotting on snowshoes. On a spellbinding winter trip into the Old Faithful area, we ride a snowcoach from Mammoth, bumping over the snow-covered road, arriving four hours later at the world’s most famous geyser.

While several companies operate snowcoaches, we opt for the Yellowstone Park Lodges operator, which offers winter shuttles and interpreted and guided day tours to experience thermal features.

Sundogs dance their crystalline shimmer, just out of my reach, always just ahead of my family, who has left me in the powdery dust between our hotel, Old Faithful Snow Lodge, and the geyser, which rangers estimate will blast soon. Old Faithful, so named because regular eruptions gush every 35 to 120 minutes, attracts global visitors year round.

The Bear Den in Old Faithful Snow Lodge rents winter gear and sells whatever item, from hat to handwarmers, visitors neglected to bring—even ice skates for the pond outside the door. The Bear Den crew offers trail advice, guiding and even lessons.

After an excellent dinner at the lodge, we saunter out once again to witness a nighttime blast of Old Faithful by headlamp, nearly bumping into a herd of bison. We about-face and head back inside for live music and hot drinks by a roaring fire, satisfied that Old Faithful can wait til daylight. Our reward: wolves howl outside, much to visitors’—and our—delight.

Recommended West Yellowstone Trails

On other trips, we’ve lodged and supped in West Yellowstone, Mont., where we would dip into the park from our hotel.

The gentle Riverside Ski Trail departs from Boundary Street trailhead on town’s east edge. The one-mile connector cruises eastward to the Madison River and the Downriver and Upriver Trail loops. A section of Downriver Loop, on the Madison River’s bank, tromps over Barnes Hole Rd., thus wide enough to snowshoe side-by-side and avoid the ski tracks. Snowshoers can spend as long as they want among the trees, Canada geese, occasional swans and bald eagles.

While the trail roams over small hills, it only gains a few feet elevation over the 7.7-mile trail, yet West Yellowstone’s elevation at 6,664 feet may challenge lungs and fitness. Trekkers may encounter bison, elk, owls and wolves, while the big carnivores, grizzly bears and black bears, mostly nap throughout the winters. Occasionally, male bears wander outside winter dens and groggily sniff around before returning to beds in a state of torpor and not true hibernation.

The trails here are not patrolled and seldom groomed. Skier and snowshoer tracks are easy to follow, but visitors should use an app such as onX, which offers trail information both online and offline. Spotty cellphone access available in communities is generally inaccessible inside the park.

Dazzled by the sundogs—hexagonal ice crystals that form a column of spinning ice mist—we thrive in winter’s solitude. The prism refracting the sun’s rays for diamond-like sparkles in the ten-degree morning is Yellowstone’s magic. Yellowstone National Park passes are required for all visitors (www.nps.gov/yell). Find additional regional tourism information at Visityellowstonecountry.com/. //

Jean Arthur has only written one adventure story from a chairlift, yet does snowshoe and XC ski from the door of her Montana office. The second edition of her book, Top Trails: Glacier National Park, will be published spring 2024 by Wilderness Press with new photography, new trails and lots of updates from both Glacier and Waterton National Parks.

Cover photo courtesy of Jean Arthur

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Winterfest in Republic, Wash., happens this year on Friday night January 12 and Saturday the 13th 2024. Don’t miss this family- and leashed-dog-friendly community celebration with creative and fun events and competitions planned all in one of the Northwest’s coolest mountain towns. Spend the weekend exploring downtown Republic and enjoying indoor and outdoor Winterfest activities with locals and visitors alike.

The Infamous Republic Winterfest Outhouse Races

The festival kicks off Friday night, January 12th at 6 p.m., with a light parade! Join in the parade or just watch on Clark Avenue. The main events get started the following day on Saturday the 13th at 11 a.m. (all events are free). Here’s the full line-up:

• K-9 Keg Pull
• Winterfest Book Walk
• Tube pull
• Outhouse races
• Hotdog eating contest
• Tug of war
• Chili and sculpture competitions
• Sasquatch calling

Find all of the event details for spectators and participants here.

Fun for all on the Ferry County Rail Trail

Get Out and Ski, Snowshoe, Snowmobile, or Fat Bike on the Trails around Republic

There are plenty of options for tacking on some wintersports adventures to your trip if you’re heading up to Republic Winterfest. Snowshoeing, backcountry or Nordic skiing, or snowmobiling trails are a short drive from town, and the nearby Ferry County Rail Trail offers a flat, non-motorized pathway for everything from hiking or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to fat biking depending on the snow conditions.

The Kettle Range Mountains to the east of Republic offers plenty of beautiful terrain to explore from either Sherman or Boulder pass on snowshoes, backcountry skis, or snowmobile. Check out our complete backcountry winter guide to the Republic area for specific trail and terrain suggestions. Because the high peaks of the Kettle Crest include some avalanche terrain, if you go there, be aware of avalanche risks in the area and go prepared when exploring backcountry terrain on skis, splitboard, or snowshoes.

Learn more about winter adventures in Republic and find lodging and other amenity info at the Republic Regional Visitors and Convention Bureau’s website.

(Sponsored Article)

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Snowshoeing has the lowest barrier to enter a winter sport and is incredibly easy to learn. It can be done on almost any local trail, but, of course, the best place to go is somewhere in the mountains where the snow is deep and consistent throughout the season. Meanwhile, Nordic skiing has also grown in popularity. To find the best snow conditions for these popular winter sports, most will ultimately need to purchase a SnoPark permit in Washington or a Park & Ski permit in Idaho.

 The SnoPark permit can be a contentious issue to someone who is new to winter sports, trying to navigate the complicated world of different passes for different places in different seasons. I think one of the most important things to understand about SnoPark permits is that it is a dedicated source of funding for snow removal at recreational access points, and, without it, the trails would definitely still exist but users would have no place to park their vehicle in order to access them. Many trailheads in mountainous areas are simply not accessible from the first major snowfall event through the spring melt-off, and it’s expensive to keep parking lots plowed. So, every year I gladly buy my permit for guaranteed plowing and then make a goal of using it as many times as possible.

If I count “getting my money’s worth” out of my SnoPark permit in terms of cost of permit divided by number of winter visits during the SnoPark season, I think I can safely estimate my $50 annual permit works out to approximately $3 per visit at Mount Spokane alone. However, as a winter sports tourist, I also find it important to explore as many additional SnoParks as possible each winter. Washington has 40 dedicated non-motorized SnoParks and another 80 that are shared use with snowmobiles. Oregon has 100 SnoPark lots, and Idaho has 17 Park & Ski sites (along with numerous snowmobile staging areas).

Each site is a little different in terms of which activities are allowed, so do some research before setting out. Some areas cater to Nordic skiing as the sole use. Some areas have Nordic skiing plus a separate area for snowshoe or fat bike, whereas other areas allow both uses off to the side of the Nordic set tracks. There are often strict rules regarding dogs at SnoPark areas, ranging from dogs not allowed at all, to dogs only allowed on certain trails or hours of the day for skijor only, to dogs allowed to run off-leash. The snowmobile lots tend to allow everything, but, since they are primarily for motorized use, they require the non-motorized user to pay much closer attention to their surroundings. 

I am still working my way through the long list of SnoParks I would like to explore, but here are several of my favorites:

WASHINGTON

Flowery Trail (Motorized): 40 miles of groomed snowmobile trails next to 49 Degrees North ski area. I like to alpine ski until my quads burn, then switch to Nordic or snowshoe for a little extra aerobic activity. 49 Nordic also has trails for a separate fee. 

Frater Lake (Non-motorized): 16 kilometers of groomed, mixed-use trails on Highway 20 between Colville and Tiger. Day-use only with a nice warming hut on the trail system.

Geophysical (Non-motorized): 11 kilometers of groomed, mixed-use trails northwest of Newport, and periodic grooming for fat bike. The trail system is adjacent to Indian Creek Community Forest, which is open to skiing and snowshoeing.

Sherman Pass (Non-motorized): Access on both sides of Highway 20 for non-groomed trails and backcountry skiing along the Kettle Crest National Recreation Trail. Columbia Mountain is a popular destination on the north side, and Sherman Peak is a popular snowshoe and backcountry ski area on the south side of the Pass. This is the main winter access point for Snow Peak Cabin if you can win the recreation.gov lottery and reserve a night! Winter camping is also allowed. Areas of avalanche danger exist in this area, so play it safe and be avalanche-aware.

Deer Creek Nordic (Non-motorized): 9 kilometers of dog-friendly groomed trails located at the northern end of the Kettle Crest National Recreation Trail. This area is great for winter backpacking and has excellent off-piste routes for telemark and Altai Hok tours in addition to snowshoeing.

Highlands (Motorized and Non-motorized): 35 kilometers of groomed Nordic trails northeast of Tonasket. A portion of the ski trails are dog-friendly, and there are separate snowshoe trails. There is a small warming hut on the west side trails. 

South Summit (Motorized and Non-motorized): 46 kilometers of mixed-use groomed trails, some of which are dog-friendly. This area is near Loup Loup Ski Bowl on Highway 20 west of Okanogan.

Lake Easton, Cabin Creek, Crystal Springs, Gold Creek/Hyak (Non-motorized): A series of SnoParks along I-90 west of Ellensburg. These have saved my sanity on several road trips west, sometimes breaking up the long drive and on two occasions keeping me happy while waiting out a freeway closure at the pass! Some dog-friendly and snowshoe-friendly trails.

Lake Wenatchee SnoPark (Non-motorized): Both Nordic ski and snowshoe trails, with campsites available (fee) at nearby Lake Wenatchee State Park.

Touchet Corral (Motorized): 56 miles of groomed snowmobile trails near Bluewood Ski Area near Dayton. This area is great for winter backpacking.

Cloverland (Motorized): 47 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. This area is great for winter backpacking and is the main access point for the Wenatchee Guard Station, a rentable cabin. 

IDAHO

Chipmunk Rapids (Non-motorized): A Park & Ski location near Priest Lake with 10 miles of mixed-use trails. Bonus: it’s dog-friendly.

Fourth of July Pass (Non-motorized): 7.8 miles of Nordic trails and a separate area for snowshoeing just off I-90 east of Coeur d’Alene. There is a nice warming cabin near the parking lot.

The post Where to Go Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing Near Spokane appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Carol Corbin

I live in the Inland Northwest . . . and I don’t ski. I think there are about five of us non-skiers in the region. We’re like unicorns. Or Yeti, if Yeti hated being cold and was averse to strapping frictionless sticks on his feet and careening down hills at break-neck speeds. I love being outdoors and am intentional about building that into my life year-round, but, despite living in Spokane for 17 years, my twice-used snowboard molders away in the basement, couched in memories of greenish-yellow bruises and unceremonious flailings out of chairlifts.

It’s no secret that recreating outdoors in the winter comes with its own set of challenges. Limited hours of daylight, frigid temperatures, snow, wind, icy trails, cold and flu season, and the seasonal gloomies can all add up and make it tough to just get out the front door. But, get outside we must, sometimes, for sanity. Here are a few things I’ve found that get me from October to May without losing my marbles.

GO SNOWSHOEING

I’ve always heard that if you can walk, you can snowshoe. That being said, the very first step I took on a pair of snowshoes, I stepped on the back of my right shoe with my left foot and abruptly crashed into the nearest snowbank. Thankfully, snow is forgiving, and I immediately learned that when you fall on snowshoes, it’s easiest to get back up if you roll onto your knees first.

Snowshoeing is a relatively low-barrier activity. You need a solid pair of hiking or snow boots, a good three-layer clothing system (moisture wicking next to the skin, insulating mid-layer, and wind/water/weatherproof top layer), and maybe some poles, and you’re set. If you don’t want to spring for your own pair of snowshoes until you know if you’ll like it, you can rent them from many local outdoor gear shops like REI and Rambleraven in Spokane. Spokane Public Libraries offers snowshoes in their “Library of Things” too. Increasingly, ski resorts offer snowshoe rentals as well.

For a beginner-friendly route with scenic views, I recommend Hauser Conservation Area, located north of Spokane Valley, between Newman and Hauser Lakes. This loop trail of just over a mile features lovely forest land, very little elevation gain, and views of Hauser Lake. Parking is free and does not require a pass. More information about the area can be found on the Spokane County Conservation Futures website.

Another nearby snowshoe adventure can be found at Round Lake State Park in Sagle, Idaho. There is a parking fee of $7 for Idaho residents and $14 for out-of-state drivers. The 1.8-mile Trapper’s Trail leads around the lake and is open to hikers and snowshoers. The longer, 2.5-mile Outer Loop Trail is open to hikers, fat bikers, snowshoers, and skiers.

TAKE A SPIN ON A FAT BIKE

My first and truest outdoor love is biking. A firm believer in the “N+1 = the right number of bikes” formula, I bought a fat bike in spring of 2018. My Salsa Mukluk does it all, albeit slowly, and has been a go-to for slow mountain biking, even slower bikepacking, and glacial (pun intended) snow biking. The irony that in order to keep my feet warm while biking in the winter I choose to wear army surplus mukluks (for their sturdy canvas shell and cozy felt liner), while pedaling a Mukluk has only now dawned on me. Fat biking has seen an explosion in popularity, and therefore the trail infrastructure has evolved to support it. It’s a great time to test the trails on these fun big wheelers. Pack provisions like food, water, and handwarmers.

Ski Resort Trails & Bike Demos: Ski resorts like 49 Degrees North boast mixed Nordic/snowshoe/fat bike trail systems so that if, like me, you find yourself in a relationship with someone who skis or snowboards, you can still have fun in the snow while they’re careening down hills, trying not to break themselves. These facilities will often host fat bike demo days during the winter, so if you’re “fattie curious,” you can try before you buy. Locally, Mojo Cyclery has a fleet of rental fat bikes also.

Take a Fattie Road Trip North of the Border: Rossland, B.C., boasts a thriving fat biking community with regular grooming weeks before the downhill resorts are even open. The team at Revolution Cycles will rent you a bike, give you the rundown of the trails, and, if you’re there on the right day, introduce you to the lead groomer. If you like climbing, you can even park in town, hop on your fat bike, and pedal up to the groomed trails! In typical Canada bike fashion, though, you’ll be riding either up or down a hill. I’m pretty sure Canadians don’t understand “flat.”

Miles of Groomed Fat Bike Trails at Spokane’s Riverside State Park: If you haven’t met Frank Benish out on the trails in Spokane’s Riverside State Park, well, you just don’t go out there enough. Frank spends most of his winter on a groomer, dialing in fat bike-friendly trails out of the Deep Creek, Wilbur, and Marchand Trailheads in the park. Because of the heavy user traffic in the Park, it can be difficult to maintain good fat bike tracks, and educating other users about how to properly care for groomed trails is a challenge. If you get out there after a good grooming run, however, the trails are magnificent! Beginner-friendly loops with limited elevation gain bring out the best in every rider. Discover Passes are required at all Riverside State Park trailheads.

Sandpoint’s Fat Bike Mecca: Pine Street Woods in Sandpoint has been snowy since the beginning of November this season. There are about six miles of groomed trails with beginner-friendly routes from the Pine Street Woods parking area, with more advanced single-track from the VTT Trailhead. There are two bike shops in Sandpoint offering fat bike rentals this season—Syringa Cyclery and Greasy Fingers Bikes N Repair. Looking to explore the trails with others? Pend Oreille Pedalers will be leading group rides this winter. More information can be found on the trail group’s Instagram and Facebook pages, @pendoreillepedalers.

TRY WINTER CAMPING

If you’re like me and can only go for a certain period of time without sleeping in a tent before you start to feel like you don’t know who you are anymore, there is always winter camping. And even though winter camping is not for the faint of heart, it is possible and can even be fun. . . in its own way. When planning your first night of winter camping, I suggest keeping it local, with a solid exit strategy. Not, say, driving a hundred miles into the central Oregon wilderness, hiking eight miles on snowshoes in frigid temperatures, and then tucking in to bed, anticipating 18 inches of snow in the morning. (Not that I would have done that. It just seems like something someone might do.)

Where to Go Snow Camping: Members of the Spokane Mountaineers can snow camp at the Mountaineers’ Chalet at Mount Spokane. Be advised, the rest of the mountain is closed to camping in the winter. The Chalet is a great option, if you’re a member, since there is a ready exit strategy in, well, picking up your sleeping bag and going inside. And the sky views at night are well worth the trip.

Fishtrap Recreation Area west of Spokane in the Channeled Scablands is another beginner-friendly winter camping destination. As with many areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management, dispersed camping is allowed year-round. There are no amenities in this area, though, so plan to pack in all your food, water, and means for using “the facilities.” Also plan to pack out all your trash.

Winter Camping Gear: If you aren’t already equipped with the necessary warm, high-insulation, and waterproof or water-resistant winter apparel and winter-worthy camping gear, it can be hard to find rentals appropriate to the occasion, but Eastern Washington University and the University of Idaho outdoor programs offer mountaineering and camping gear. You can also buy the gear you need new at outdoor gear shops or find quality used items at Rambleraven in Spokane. Don’t skimp on a warm, weather-resistant tent, insulated sleeping pad, and a nice, warm sleeping bag rated for well-below freezing. You could be in it for 12 hours or more since there’s not much else to do in the winter once the sun goes down.

The Inland Northwest is an amazing place to live, and having all four seasons is one of the things that makes it great. There’s nothing like fresh-fallen snow on a bluebird day! So, even if you don’t ski or snowboard, you can find ways to enjoy (or at least survive) being outdoors all year long.

Carol has been exploring the woods, trails, and rivers of the Inland Northwest for the last 17 years. Working for Inland Northwest Land Conservancy helps her pursue her personal mission of getting more people outside for nature’s physical and mental health benefits. 

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